IRS Tax Tip 2018-36, March 8, 2018
When a taxpayer changes their name, that change can affect their taxes. All the names on a taxpayer¡¯s tax return must match Social Security Administration records. A name mismatch can delay a tax refund. Here¡¯s what a taxpayer should do if anyone listed on their tax return changed their name:
- Reporting Taxpayer¡¯s Name Change. Taxpayers who should notify the SSA of a name change include:
- Taxpayers who got married and use their spouse¡¯s last name.
- Recently married taxpayers who now use a hyphenated name.
- Divorced taxpayers who now use their former last name.
- Reporting Dependent¡¯s Name Change. Taxpayers should notify the SSA if a dependent¡¯s name changed. This includes an adopted child who now has a new last name. If the child doesn¡¯t have a Social Security number, the taxpayer may use a temporary Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number on the tax return. Taxpayers can apply for an ATIN by filing a Form W-7A.
- Getting a New Social Security Card. Taxpayers who have a name change should get a new card that reflects a name change. File Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. Taxpayers can get the form on or by calling 800-772-1213.
More information
- Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions
IRS YouTube Videos:
- Changed ÐÇ¿ÕÌåÓýÊÖ»ú¶Ë Name after Marriage or Divorce? ¨C English | Spanish | ASL (obsolete)